Quantum Computing Explained

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing uses the properties of quantum mechanics to perform computation. Quantum computers have the potential to solve many of the world's biggest problems, including global hunger, pandemics, and climate change. They operate differently from our usual classical computers and have the potential to provide the computing power needed for solving problems that are difficult for today’s supercomputers to solve.??

How Does a Quantum Computer Work??

Quantum computers process data in a much unique way and transmit information through quantum bits (or qubits), as opposed to traditional computers operating on binary bits (0’s and 1’s). Qubits harness two key properties of quantum physics, superposition, and entanglement, to carry out computations. They can exist in multiple states, either as 0’s, 1’s, or both, or allow for processing of information at the same time rather than sequentially, significantly reducing the time it takes to finish computing numerous information. Entanglement occurs when the state of one qubit (0 or 1 or both) depends on the state of another.??

Quantum computers operate faster than classical computers, while the latter can only solve problems one at a time, the former uses the principles of entanglement to quickly and efficiently solve a problem. Quantum computers have the ability to find optimal solutions where there is insufficient data or enormous data that cannot be processed by classical computers.???

Applications of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize industries, economies and save lives.? It will help disentangle complex molecular and chemical reactions, leading to the discovery of new and improved drugs, vaccines, medicines, and better diagnostics. It can help in accurate financial forecasts, leading to improved investments and reduced risks. Quantum computing can also transform the supply chain and logistics sector by detecting the best routes for transport and delivery operations. It has the potential to improve the development of artificial intelligence, enhance cybersecurity, help with cryptography, deliver accurate weather forecasts, improve the software of self-driving cars, etc.???

Do quantum computers exist??

Quantum computers do exist today but are still in their infancy.? Most of them currently use about 100 qubits and are uncontrollable, prone to error and prone to falling out of their quantum states. Scientists usually have to enclose them in large-scale refrigerators to ensure their stability. Currently, IBM and Google are making progress towards increasing the number of qubits so as to build a relevant quantum computer as soon as possible. The race to developing these quantum technologies is decelerated as a result of the limited number of trained scientists and engineers, lack of diversity and inclusion of minority ethnic groups, and underrepresentation of women.?

Getting into quantum computing

You can get into quantum computing through a variety of paths. Many industries will adopt quantum computing for efficiency and better result in the future. These industries include; financial services, healthcare, media and technology, cybersecurity, and supply chain. Getting involved in quantum computing does not necessarily require the traditional education system, i.e. getting a degree in computer science or physics. You can also;?

• Learn quantum programming early?
• Contribute to the open-source community – QISKit.?
• Apply at IBM Quantum group
• Follow a quantum expert

Some useful resources that can contribute to your growth and progress in quantum computing are quantum development toolkit (a open-source development kit that enables development of quantum computing applications in Q#), quantum computing playground (a browser-based WebGL Chrome Experiment), and Quirk (a drag and drop quantum circuit simulator).?

The Need for Diversity and Inclusion in STEM

There is no doubt that diversity fuels innovation, creativity, and productivity. It can significantly aid in boosting economic growth and revenue. Diversity ensures that new and upcoming technology fit and includes everyone irrespective of their background. Despite the increasing demand for tech roles in the UK and a 40% increase in the last two years, there still exist a huge gender and ethnicity gap in tech companies and low investments given to diverse founders. According to Wired, Black people made up just 3% of the UK tech workforce, with only 2.6% of UK tech company board members from ethnic minority backgrounds.?

Companies and organizations need to address the issues of diversity and inclusion in the workplace using practical strategies. For example, eliminating bias in the recruiting, promotion, and performance appraisal of candidates.??

Ethnic disparities do not just occur at the level of job application but way before then. Black people are more likely to be underrepresented in academia, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) related subjects. According to BBSTEM, Black UK domiciled students enrolled in STEM-related subjects make up only 6.2%. These disparities may be worsened by a lack of role models, a narrow curriculum, and a lack of funding for postgraduate study.? Black and Minority ethnic women and girls are the most affected by these disparities. According to Tech Nation, women make up only 25.5% of the tech workforce in the UK, with the Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) group accounting for 15.2% of the entire tech workforce. Black and Minority ethnic women are grossly underrepresented in STEM education and career as a result of their race and gender. This is compounded by a lack of mentors in leadership positions, low confidence, low visibility, and certain academic mindsets. Actionable steps need to be taken to support their interest and enrollment in STEM-related studies from their A-levels to Bachelors, Masters, PhDs, and even careers. Increasing the presence of role models and mentors can positively influence BME girls’ interest in STEM-related subjects and careers.?

The #BeMe Project is a campaign that seeks to achieve gender equality by increasing the representation of Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) women in STEM education and careers. It aims to inspire one million BME girls to pursue STEM-related subjects and empower them in tech by educating and equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the tech workspace and connecting them with BME female leaders in the tech space. To access further information and donate, visit here.?

References

https://dig.watch/trends/quantum-computing

https://www.zdnet.com/article/quantum-computers-are-coming-get-ready-for-them-to-change-everything/#:~:text=Most%20quantum%20computers%20currently%20work,computer%20as%20early%20as%20possible.

https://technation.io/report2021/#jobs-and-skills

https://www.wired.co.uk/article/racial-equality-tech

https://www.stemwomen.co.uk/blog/2021/03/bame-women-in-stem